In terms of family films, 'Masterminds' would be rather average were it not for the fact it has somehow manages to boast a talented group of adult actors cast in key roles. The film focuses on sixteen-year-old delinquent Oz, who has just been expelled form his private school for yet another prank gone wrong. But after walking his eight-year-old step-sister to school one morning, he finds himself caught up in a ploy by a criminal group to hold the children hostage in exchange for a million-dollar ransom. Oz must then use his talent for pranks to free his step-sister and the other children.
Vincent Kartheiser (better known as Connor in 'Angel') give a reasonable performance as Oz although a few might find the character too cocky and a bit annoying after a spell. But it is the adult actors who steal the show. Patrick Stewart is excellent as Rafe, the criminal heading the heist on the school and a man who is initially cool and reserved until his patience is increasingly tested by Oz. He has some great lines that he utters with the right amount of collected decorum. Brenda Fricker is a nice surprise as the disapproving school head teacher and Callum Keith Rennie is hilarious as one of Rafe's low-class henchmen.
This film will probably entertain kids aged six to twelve who like action flicks and but are a little young for Bruce Willis yet want something more hard-hitting than 'Home Alone'. But for adults, it's worth a look-in for the adult cast. Besides, there aren't many films where you get to see Patrick Stewart in a Man. United shirt shouting 'United'!
Vincent Kartheiser (better known as Connor in 'Angel') give a reasonable performance as Oz although a few might find the character too cocky and a bit annoying after a spell. But it is the adult actors who steal the show. Patrick Stewart is excellent as Rafe, the criminal heading the heist on the school and a man who is initially cool and reserved until his patience is increasingly tested by Oz. He has some great lines that he utters with the right amount of collected decorum. Brenda Fricker is a nice surprise as the disapproving school head teacher and Callum Keith Rennie is hilarious as one of Rafe's low-class henchmen.
This film will probably entertain kids aged six to twelve who like action flicks and but are a little young for Bruce Willis yet want something more hard-hitting than 'Home Alone'. But for adults, it's worth a look-in for the adult cast. Besides, there aren't many films where you get to see Patrick Stewart in a Man. United shirt shouting 'United'!